Some Updates

This is going to be one of the most exciting Christmas for me. Even if I haven't started with my Christmas shopping or at least plan our Christmas menu, one thing kept me very busy... Preparing my kitchen for a baking showcase. 

Here's my situation for the past months since I started baking: I go all the way to my parents house just to bake. In the condo we're renting, a kitchen stove that runs thru gas is not allowed. As of the moment, I use an induction cooker which has become a blessing because of it's healthy and budget- friendly benefits (in another post).

Aside from the stand mixer my parents gave me as an advance gift for my birthday, I just found out that I am also going to be gifted with a brand new countertop oven and new baking materials. Like I said in my previous post, all I wanted to do is to bake for my family. 6- 12 cupcakes will do... I don't really need anything big or heavy duty in order to achieve something that is easy to make. This countertop oven is the answer to what I need at this point in time. I am really excited because now, I don't have to travel far and disturb anybody just so I can create and bake something. I can experiment without having too much wastage.

Practice, take time, practice, take your time, practice... that's what my parents would often tell me. We believe that nothing's going to be achieved in the right way if we will suddenly jump into things. Time is of the essence in a way that I don't need to rush things. But at the same time, I need to put in mind that each day counts. Just like 2 weeks ago, I was invited to join a Christmas bazaar. It is a wonderful opportunity.

Again, this bazaar is not going to be possible if it weren't for the people who thought about me... I am truly grateful to be blessed. I am just happy to be surrounded by people who are very supportive of what I do. 

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I apologize for the long absence of recipes and food features on this blog. The recent calamity that hit our country was devastating that me and my husband couldn't bear if we don't do anything. For the past 2 weeks, I helped my other half prepare for a relief and medical mission in Leyte together with a team of doctors, firefighters and medics. It was a life- changing event for all...

His Health and Wellness

Low testosterone is a very common condition, and it's nothing to be ashamed of. Men's testosterone levels begin to decrease in their early thirties, and continue to decline over time. There are also some medical conditions that can cause low testosterone. The symptoms of low testosterone include:

Poor concentration

Memory decrease

Depression

Dimishing body hair

Low sex drive

Erectile dysfunction

-source-

Raising testosterone levels is easy, and there are several ways you can do so naturally.

1. Weight loss and exercise. Interval training and strength training, combined with short periods of fasting, have been shown to increase testosterone levels. Since obesity is also linked to decreased testosterone, it has added benefits.

3. Increase your intake of certain minerals. Some minerals, like zinc and vitamin D-rich sources of calcium, have also proven effective. You can get zinc in a number of dietary sources, including raw milk or cheese and beans. The recommended amount of vitamin D for most adult males is between 50-70 ng/ml.

4. Cut down on stress. Stress effects every system of the body, and it can decrease essential hormone levels, as well as increase levels of bad hormones.

5. Lower your intake of sugar. Sugar in moderate amounts isn't necessarily harmful, but the whole body will benefit from a diet that's lower in refined sugars.

Testosterone is a hormone that is present in both men and women. If you need a little help increasing your testosterone levels, there are supplements available. Nature's Plus Testosterone Booster is an example of a product that helps raise your testosterone levels safely and naturally, without the use of synthetic ingredients that can have harmful side effects. Natural testosterone boosters are created from herbs, such as fenugreek, and can give you just the boost you need.

My Birthday in 2013

This year, I did not plan anything in particular because my husband was away on a mission. I thought I skip the "celebration part" with respect to the people who are badly affected by the recent typhoon. For some reason, fate had a different plan for me. I may have decided not to celebrate my 35th year, but some people were very nice and thought of ways to make my birthday memorable for 2013.

I look at birthday celebrations as a good way to share my favorite things, especially food with the people close to my heart.

To begin, the week my husband was away, I was practically juggling everything on my own. I kinda lived the life of a single parent. My parents were the only people available to help me with some things. One afternoon, my mom paid me a visit and invited me for lunch. We went to a nearby restaurant called Banapple.

For lunch we had pasta. Dishes we haven't tried in Banapple: Penne Bolognese and Trio of Sausages Fettuccine. It's my mom's advance birthday treat. Times spent with my mom and dad are often spent with a good conversation about life, their experiences as parents and lessons they've learned, things I'm still learning.

Monday, I took my kids out for some ice cream and more pasta at the newly opened Iceberg's Katipunan Avenue. I enjoyed my tall mug of strawberry float and the company of my children. My husband surprised me with a cake when me and the kids got home from Iceberg's. It was a blessing that my husband arrived safely from his trip on my special day.

Then, gifts in huge boxes came in... This has got to be one of the most memorable moments in my life. The intention to sacrifice for those in need was attained. I wasn't expecting anything in return but when I thought I had nothing, blessings poured in. When I thought, I was alone, people I love surprised me.

Beautiful Dresses For All Occasions

There are 2 things coming:  for the end of this year and sometime in 2014.

1.The Holiday Season
2.My brother's wedding.

Both events call for a darling outfit.

Let's start with the most wonderful time we all celebrate, Christmas. It's that time of the year when every boy and girl gets to dress up with the most amazing, beautiful colors and clothes that accentuates one's assets. This year, our family agreed to dress a little formal for Christmas. At first, we thought of red as motif, but it turned out that it's going to be more fun if we mix colors. With that, we all thought to wear something a bit dressy for a nice looking family portrait.

I went to www.dressfirst.com immediately to check out some dresses fit for our theme.

I came across this Sheath Scoop Neck Knee-Length Chiffon... I just love chiffon... It flows and I adore the elegant texture. This dress does not need to much accessories. The style may look simple, from the scoop neck to the length. But the cut along the sleeve line makes the whole cocktail dress high fashion. This particular dress is made- to- order at Dress First. It is going to be personally tailored for my exact fit. Size chart and measuring guide is available in case you want your order to fit you perfectly. Not to forget, there's a wide range colors and sizes to choose from.

I can't wait for the Holidays... This Sheath Scoop Neck Knee-Length Chiffon dress fits me perfectly. As a stay at home mom, I see myself wearing a more conservative yet fashionable attire. Dress First has a lot of options and they have outfits for all occasions.

The next occasion that I need to be ready for is my brother's wedding. I got really excited for this particular event because I will be part of the whole planning team. Weddings nowadays concentrates on a modern vibe. My parents are traditionalists. They're more into the usual white gown where every part of the bride's body is covered. With my brother's wedding, we want to stray away from the usual. Besides, it's the bride and groom's choice to go modern.

Since the wedding ceremony is set to be in chapel, an A-Line/Princess Strapless Knee-Length Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress with Ruffle is going to be amazing for the ladies. From this cut, there are other A- Line dresses at Dress First that you may find appealing; like a dress with a sash or straps. But personally, I'm already in love with this dress and I don't think it needs further adjustments.

One does not need to change into a different outfit after the church ceremony. Often, based on my experience, I change into a party-fit attire. For the reception and just to have fun with the newly weds. The knee- length cut makes the whole ensemble ready for some cocktails and for dancing. 

In choosing the right dress, aside from the over-all look, it is very important that you're comfortable with what you'll wear. It automatically builds confidence. When you're confident, you bloom, you shine, it makes people appreciative and all the positive vibes will flow naturally. Dress First has the most adorable dresses. For each event in your life, I know you'll find a lovely dress fit for your personality and style.

Help Typhoon Haiyan Victims

Like everyone else, my husband and I are doing our best on finding ways to help our brothers and sisters at the Visayas Region. One important opportunity that knocked at our door was the relief efforts my husband's company will make as they will send employees with relief goods at the most devastated areas. When I heard about it, I cried because now I have a way to directly send help for our fellow Filipinos in need. If it's going to be allowed, I will encourage my other half to join the group as representative for our whole family and friends here in the Philippines, from America and the rest of the world.

The aftermath Typhoon Yolanda/ Haiyan has left in our country was heartbreaking. It broke my heart in an instant and I can't get over it. Spreading information on how to help and donate is one way to ease those troubled hearts. If you can, please continue to send these important and reliable information within your network as we go through this deep adversity.

In sending out donations please be advised to entrust your goods, cash or in kind to reliable groups and organizations. People whom you feel will bring your donations safely and directly to the people of Visayas.

To the rest of the world... Thank you... We are truly grateful and appreciative of the continuous support and united relief efforts you've been showering our beloved country.

Please check the links below for the list of trusted international and local assistance.

American Red Cross

How To Help Typhoon Haiyan Victims

Ways To Donate and Help Typhoon Haiyan Victims

#YolandaActionWeekend! 

Abs-Cbn Sagip Kapamilya

GMA Kapuso Foundation

Alagang Kapatid 

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 It will take time to rebuild, but hope and with continuous prayers, the Filipino spirit will never fail the nation to keep moving foward.

I am he, I am he who will sustain you.

I have made you and I will carry you;

I will sustain you and I will rescue you. Isaiah 46:4